Legal Changes of Name

Changing your name is an important decision that can have far-reaching effects on your personal and business relationships. If you were born in Canada, a legal change of name also changes the name on your birth record. It’s important to understand the steps required in a legal name change, the cost, and the effect it will have on your life.

The Certificate of Change of Name is the document you will show whenever you are asked for proof of your legal change of name. For instance, you will need to produce this when changing your name on your driver’s licence.

Your Surname after Marriage

After marriage, you can choose to continue using your own surname (last name), or you can start using your spouse's surname. Assuming your spouse's surname does not constitute or require a legal change of name under the Name Act.

If after assuming a spouse’s surname after marriage you decide to go back to using your own surname, you can do this at any time without a legal change of name.

Legislation

The policies and procedures for completing a legal change of name in British Columbia follow legislation set out in the Name Act.